In our first article, we discussed the various roles and ceremonies in the SAFe framework and explored some pitfalls to avoid. One of these pitfalls was becoming fixated on how the different roles are described in the framework. We then delved into creating a more dynamic work environment, focusing on what needs to be delivered, and not being bound by overly rigid role descriptions. Next, we had a discussion about the different SAFe ceremonies and how to effectively focus on their outcomes. We also talked about balancing work between new development and maintenance, followed by the risk of getting stuck in endless discussions. After that, we explored how to involve the Product Manager (PM), System Architect (SA), and Business Owner (BO) in the operational work to gain better insights into their responsibilities. The previous article covered the interaction between the Product Owner (PO) and Scrum Master (ScM). In this final and concluding article, we will discuss the risks of overly fixating on the SAFe framework instead of managing and developing the product.
Focus on outcomes
If the organization excessively focuses on strictly adhering to the SAFe framework, it may spend too much time and energy maintaining processes rather than delivering value to customers. This can create a situation where it falls into the "process trap," forgetting that the most important aspect is to get things done and deliver results.
Don't get too caught up in how things should be done or what SAFe stipulates in its recommendations; instead, take action and get things done! Afterwards, you can evaluate what worked well and what didn't.
This excessive focus on how to solve things is a common dilemma, not specific to working with SAFe. A classic example is when analyzing data and then treating the results based on the analysis. Many tech-savvy individuals start thinking about different types of scripts to solve the problem. Whether it's bash, python, javascript, awk, perl, or any other scripting language, it doesn't really matter.
However, sometimes it can take a considerable amount of time to develop the script that solves the basic problem. At the same time, someone in the team manually solves the problem in 30 minutes without using a script. And if it's a problem that only occurs once, the developed script becomes almost useless. The only thing you've gained is some knowledge about how to develop a script to solve this type of problem.
Unnecessary administration
The SAFe framework is quite extensive, comprising many different roles, ceremonies, and artifacts. If the organization doesn't adapt the framework to its own needs, it may lead to unnecessary bureaucracy and complexity. Managing all parts of the framework can become cumbersome and inefficient if they are not relevant to the organization's size, complexity, and working methods.
Many roles can be combined into one in smaller organizations. Many ceremonies can be simplified significantly without compromising on quality.
We've talked about this before, and it's worth mentioning again. Don't see the SAFe framework as a law book to be strictly followed, but rather as a collection of advice and support that you can adapt to your organization and team as you see fit. It's essential to understand the unique needs, goals, and cultural context of your organization.
Identify the challenges and problems the organization wants to address by using SAFe and the specific goals it aims to achieve.
Rigid handling
If the SAFe framework feels rigid, it can make the organization less flexible and harder to adapt to market changes or customer needs. It may create a culture where people are afraid to make changes or try new approaches, hindering innovation and growth. Therefore, it's crucial to regularly evaluate how the SAFe framework functions within the organization.
Identify areas where there might be some friction and the framework feels inflexible. Then, adapt the implementation and reevaluate. This may involve adjusting certain ceremonies that may feel too cumbersome for the team or organization. Sometimes, there may be value in replacing certain ceremonies with simpler variants on the same theme.
Cultural differences
The SAFe framework was developed with specific cultural values and contexts in mind. If the organization doesn't adapt the framework to its own values and cultural aspects, it may create a gap between practical needs and theoretical framework requirements. Be aware of the cultural values already present in your organization and how they might affect the use of the SAFe framework.
Try to adjust the framework to fit into your organization's existing culture and values. If certain parts of SAFe do not align or encounter resistance, consider modifying them to better suit the organization.
Communicate clearly about the purpose of implementing the SAFe framework and explain how it can help the organization achieve its goals. Involve all stakeholders and ensure they understand how the framework will impact their work and benefit them in the long run. Why did you introduce SAFe? What did you hope to achieve with it?
The risk is that relying too much on the framework might lead to the belief that it will automatically solve the organization's problems. But relying on SAFe in that manner can become a "quick fix" – an enticing solution in the short term but unsustainable in the long run. It may prevent addressing the real problems and challenges within the organization and achieving the desired results.
To avoid these consequences, it's essential for organizations to take a pragmatic and adaptable approach when implementing the SAFe framework. This involves using parts of the framework that are relevant and valuable for the organization and adjusting it to meet the organization's unique needs and culture.
It's also crucial to have an open and learning culture where work methods are continuously evaluated and adjusted based on experiences and results. By being flexible and adaptable, the organization can avoid pitfalls of overly focusing on the SAFe framework and instead create an effective and sustainable work method that delivers true value to customers and the organization as a whole.
By embracing these insights, you can more easily avoid pitfalls and maximize the benefits of implementing SAFe in your organization. We wish you the best of luck with implementing SAFe and that your organization gains as much as possible by tailoring the framework to your needs.
